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Drink driving is a contributing factor to a similar proportion of Queensland’s road crash fatalities (Data Analysis Unit 2009 and Department of Transport and Main Roads 2011).

Random breath testing (RBT) was introduced into Queensland in 1988 and since then considerable progress has been made in reducing the number of drink-driving related crashes through the use of RBT and publicity campaigns.

While the community now generally acknowledges that drink driving is socially unacceptable behaviour, the fact that alcohol still contributes to such a large percentage of road crash fatalities is a concern. More work still needs to be done through initiatives targeted at those most likely to offend – particularly on a repeated basis.

Research shows that a high proportion of recidivist drink drivers have clinical alcohol dependence problems (Australian Transport Council 2008, p41). CD members agree that a focus on rehabilitating offenders is needed to help reduce re-offending.

Advice to motorists:

As a general guide, to stay below the open licence limit of 0.05% BAC:

Males can have a maximum of two standard drinks in the first hour, and one standard drink each hour after that;

Females can have a maximum of one standard drink in the first hour, and one standard drink each hour after that.

This is a guide only because everyone is different. The best approach is to avoid alcohol if you will be driving.

Standard Alcoholic Drink Chart

Drink driving

Enjoying an alcoholic beverage has long been a Queensland past time, particularly in the warmer months. Whether it's at a BBQ or just a few casual drinks over lunch, a majority of Queenslanders love a social drink. But do you know how much is too much before you get behind the wheel? In this episode of CD TV we take a closer look at low range drink driving and how that one extra drink could leave you with a suspended licence and a new-found appreciation for the bus timetable.

Implement a level of enforcement and education such that drivers perceive a real risk of detection should they exceed the legal maximum blood alcohol content (BAC), e.g., increasing the allocation of police resources during times and at locations associated with high alcohol consumption.

Further enhance community education about alcohol intake and BAC and promote alternatives to drinking and driving, e.g., understanding what a standard drink is and planning to drink at venues serviced by other transport options and/or designated driver programs.

Encourage the hospitality industry to become more responsible for their patrons, e.g., publicans serving alcohol responsibly and not breaking liquor licensing laws by serving patrons alcohol to the point of intoxication, and providing and promoting designated driver schemes and complimentary/alternative transport services to help reduce the incidence of drink driving and drink walking in conjunction with transport providers, local governments, health and community agencies.

Use road-based measures in the vicinity of licensed premises to reduce the incidence of crashes involving intoxicated pedestrians, e.g., roadside barriers and improved lighting.